"Everyone is telling me we waste too much money for the fireworks," fundraising organizer Peggy Kidd told the Times-News, adding that about 5,000 people watch the fireworks at the College of Southern Idaho each year, with another 5,000 watching from parking lots of nearby shopping centers.

But the city of Twin Falls doesn't pay for the fireworks celebration; the show is primarily funded through donations made on residents' water bills. More money comes from fees generated from fireworks stands. Additionally, Independent Healthcare Providers of Idaho has donated as much as $8,000 previously, but this year the same group has dropped its donation to $1,200.

The city of Boise, in comparison, budgets $25,000 for its fireworks spectacular at Ann Morrison Park, with significant donations coming in from the event's big sponsors.